THE FOUR Irish songbirds of Celtic Woman started the first show of their Australian tour with a standing ovation at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre last night.

From the opening moments of the concert, the visually stunning stage setting - complete with hazy smoke, magical light effects and pulsating drums - transfixed and transported the audience to the Irish Highlands.

The captivating and masterful talent of violinist Nesbitt is great for aspiring violinists everywhere.

Great choreography and the interaction with the audience by performing traditional and well known compositions such as You Raise Me Up and You'll Never Walk Alone ensured that both male and female, and young and old were captivated from the beginning to the end of each performance.

High-energy tap dancing, a diversity of musical instruments and with 50 members of the Australian Girls Choir was an exhilarating combination that will definitely win over more fans for Celtic Woman as the group continues its tour around the country.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Australian Girls Choir and the show was certainly a spectacular showcase for them.

Celtic Woman has succeeded in bringing a part of Ireland and Scotland with them on tour and implanting it into the crowd through a mix of traditional music, original compositions and contemporary pop.

This is musical storytelling at its best.

Celtic Woman plays The Newcastle Entertainment Centre on Wednesday and the Sydney Entertainment Centre on Friday.